MARANG, Jan 18 — A total of RM527 million has been allocated by the government for the construction of an alternative road from Kampung Keruak in Besut, Terengganu to Simpang Pulai, Perak.

Works Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said the north-bound road project would complement the federal road network, covering a distance of 37 kilometres, which will also connect to Kuala Berang and Lojing in Kelantan.

He said the project was listed in the 11th Malaysia Plan and was expected to be tendered next year.

“There are 10 extension projects that have also been approved, costing a total of about RM787 million,” he told reporters after inspecting the road upgrading works from Sultan Mansur roundabout to Kuala Berang and from Padang Mengkuang to Durian Guling here today.

He said the construction of the new alternative road would facilitate north-bound road users and cut the travel time for road users from the east coast heading to Tasik Kenyir.